Precision without Position Sensor

Piezo crystalline phase shifter with Picoactuator® technology

Press Release

Karlsruhe, 20.07.2011
, Phase shifters are used in laser measurement to align optical path lengths.
These move optics in the range of a wavelength, which corresponds to an adjustment
range of less than one micrometer.
It is crucial for the alignment to take place quickly and in a stable manner.

For the new S-303.BL phase shifter, PI (Physik Instrumente) replaces
classic piezo ceramic PZT actuators (made of lead titanate - lead zirconate)
with pico actuators made of a crystalline, lead-free material.
These pico actuators are characterized by a particularly high linearity,
so that precision positioning is also possible in open-loop operation.
With a travel range of 0.3 micrometers, they achieve a precision of 6 nanometers,
which corresponds to a linearity of 2%.

In comparison to classic piezo ceramics, however, pico actuators have a smaller displacement.
Ideal fields of application are therefore wherever high dynamics, short travel ranges and high
precision requirements are necessary.

Open-loop operation does without the use of a position sensor in favor of the
system bandwidth and costs. This simplifies the mechanical structure and the electronic control;
servo cycle delays do not occur. The S-303.BL is thus a precise yet
dynamic drive for optics in the range of a wavelength.

Well-known for the high quality of its products, PI is one of the leading players in the global market
for precision positioning technology for many years. PI has been developing and manufacturing standard
and OEM products with piezo or motor drives for 40 years now. In addition to its three German factories,
PI has eight subsidiaries and a total of over 500 employees worldwide.